http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/32602.page Public Action
When I designed my home 16 years ago, I knew that orienting a large percentage of my windows to the south to capture both winter daylight and solar heat would save me at least 25% of my heating costs, as well as reduce the need for air conditioning in the summer. I also spent more on additional insulation and air sealing, as well as better windows than the builder normally used. Many of my light fixtures were hardwired for compact fluorescent lamps- and in 16 years, I still haven't had to relamp most of these fixtures.
Last year, I finally had enough money put aside to install solar hot water and photovoltaic panels. This was much easier to do, as the roof and a plumbing chase were planned to allow for them. My hot water costs have been pretty much eliminated in the summer, and I also generate about 6-7 kwh of electricity per reasonably sunny day with a 1.4 kw system. This is about 75% of my usage- which includes a full time home office with several computers.
Working from home not only has increased my productivity- I am an architect specializing in lighting design- but has reduced the miles traveled by car by 50%. Thank goodness for the internet!
Developers, builders, and realtors need to take solar orientation much more seriously, and people who want to buy homes need to demand more attractive, energy efficient homes with good solar access. ]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1367421 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1367421 GMT


]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1365499 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1365499 GMT My name is Medora Jensen and I live in West Charleston, VT.
We use compostable/biodegradable utensils, plates and cups at BBQ's http://www.greenlinepaper.com/. We also use 100% recycled, napkins, toilet paper, paper towels and printer paper. We are slowly switching over to enviromentaly friendly cleaning supplies and we are CSA (community Supported Agriculture) members. We hope that our next vehicle will be a Toyota Prius.]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1358811 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1358811 GMT
We are also developing our awareness of local foods, and reducing what we eat that comes from far away.]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1355617 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1355617 GMT
U.S. drivers should think in gallons per mile: report
From Reuters

Click here for the link.

"If soaring gasoline prices have prompted you to look for a more fuel-efficient ride, using miles per gallon as a guide could lead you astray, U.S. researchers said on Thursday."
]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1338817 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1338817 GMT
I do a lot of highway driving. As an experiment I drove 55 instead of 65. My 45 minute commute took 50 minutes, my gas mileage went up over five miles per gallon. So, over a year period that is almost a $1000 savings. Give it a try and do the math, then imagine how much we could decrease our dependence on the black gold if everybody drove 55. Jimmy Carter tried this years ago without any luck...maybe we are in a new era of consciousness.]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1338015 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1338015 GMT
Other than that - composting, recycling, using reusable bags, avoiding big box stores, buying local.....]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1335413 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1335413 GMT
Our big surprise was when we cautiously offered a photovoltaic design and installation workshop in May. We needed at least 10 participants; could we entice that many to this northern corner of Vermont?

We were overwhelmed! Participants came from eight states (including Michigan & New Mexico) and Quebec. We had to cap the class at 25 and we had enough folks on the waiting list to offer another session this fall! It turns out that this sort of workshop is not often offered east of the Mississippi. This interest is very encouraging news about the community's readiness to go "green."

Please go to http://www.northwoodscenter.org/ for photos, etc. on the solar installation workshop. And please contact us for info on the solar success, plus new plans to demonstrate a micro-hydro energy approach.

Nancy Engels
Board Member
NorthWoods Stewardship Center
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331417 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331417 GMT http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331411 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331411 GMT
Bennett, Burlington VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331226 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331226 GMT
Joanne, Bennington VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331225 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331225 GMT
Susan, Burlington VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331224 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331224 GMT 1. They live in my car, in the box on top of my jumper cables.
2. If I forget to bring them in, I park my cart out of the way while I go back to the car and get them (I seldom forget now).
3. At home, when I have unloaded the bags, I hang the, on a hook near the door so I remember to take them back to the car.

Ione, Essex VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331223 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331223 GMT
Kristen, Starksboro VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331222 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331222 GMT
Ann, Essex VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331220 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331220 GMT Drive 55 on highways
Use clothes-line
Don't flush toiled with every use (you'll know when it's necessary :)
Don't let the water run when brushing your teeth
Wash your clothes with cold water
Keep thermostat low at night in the winter
Lower shades in the summer to decrease solar gain, raise on sunny days in the winter to increase solar gain.

Susan, Burlington VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331219 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331219 GMT Walk
Drive less
Drive within speed limit
1-stop shopping
eat less
drive fuel efficient vehicles

John, Richmond VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331217 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331217 GMT
Todd, Essex Junction VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331216 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331216 GMT
Hang up clothes to dry!

Carol, South Strafford VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331215 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331215 GMT
Erica, Montpelier VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331214 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331214 GMT
Herb
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331212 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331212 GMT I became a member largely because of the Green message.

Dan, Richmond VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331211 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1331211 GMT Secondly, we all take our reusable bags to the grocery store but do you bring them to other stores you go to? I have started doing this and am so happy not to have extra plastic bags hanging around waiting for a second use!]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1330817 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1330817 GMT I usually try to buy bulk but sometimes I need to buy cereal in boxes, which proved helpful last Sunday. My husband and myself were putting in the last large post of the day when I noticed water in the hole ): Being Sun. it was not possible to buy a sonatube, besides I would NOT drive :30 just for that, but since I save my cereal boxes the solution was apparent. I shaped the box using the top for the bottom, poured in the cement mix, added water, bingo it worked perfectly! Also, the waxed paper inside is just the right size to wrap your pie dough in while you chill it.]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1329222 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1329222 GMT
Janet, Sutton VT
Sustaining Member
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1323630 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1323630 GMT
Http://www.itsgreenhere.net

Enjoy reading great info and shopping organic, recycled, eco friendly, fair trade, whether it be shampoo or shorts. Use only 100% post consumer recycled paper goods. There are pages on organic gardening, clothes, eco friendly gifts, organic bedding, etc. Very neat stuff, lots of variety, looks good, smells good, feels good.

Ride the green wave and let's get this world back in balance.

I LOVE VPR. Thanks, Susanne]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1323412 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1323412 GMT http://en....permiling.]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1323214 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1323214 GMT
Click here to see "The Dangers of Plastic Bags".

from Sherry
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1311629 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1311629 GMT
Click here to read more about this.]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1311625 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1311625 GMT
Tamara, E. Randolph VT
(posted by VPR)
]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310848 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310848 GMT
Beth, Westford VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310845 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310845 GMT
Rosemary, Wolcott VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310844 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310844 GMT
Anonymous green tip
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310842 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310842 GMT
Madeleine, Burlington VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310840 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310840 GMT
Cheryl, Alstead NH
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310839 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310839 GMT
Jeremy
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310837 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310837 GMT
Anne, Bristol VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310834 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310834 GMT
Joan, town unknown
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310831 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310831 GMT
Click here for the NY Times article "That Buzz in Your Ear May Be Green Noise". (image from the NY Times' Ken Orvidas).]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310815 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310815 GMT
In terms of conservation efforts, we have compiled a list of over over 75 conservation tips and we do our best to practice what we preach. The average carbon footprint of Brighter Planet employees is 17.3 tons, compared to the national average of 23 tons.

Finally, we're all using the Brighter Planet Visa, which helps offset what can't be conserved through everyday purchases. Last week our cardholders reached 10,000 tons of CO2 offset!

Yes, I suppose that was a shameless plug, but we're really proud of what we're doing ;)

-Adam

]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310423 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1310423 GMT
UVM's Davis Center: Click here to learn more about how the Davis Center was built to be more efficient and environmentally friendly. There's also an audio tour of the Davis Center put together by Professor Logan Brown's ENVS 195 class; you can listen or download the tour here.

WGBH's new Studio in Boston: 'GBH's news studio is LEED-certified by the US Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program. Among the efforts that earned that distinction: reclaiming a "brownfield," environmental construction practices, and a solar farm and "green" roof. Click here for more.]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1297429 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1297429 GMT
Meredith, Montpelier VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1297022 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1297022 GMT
Jaclyn, Middletown Springs VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1297021 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1297021 GMT
Kate & Ray, West Rupert VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1297019 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1297019 GMT
David & Dorothy, Stowe VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1297017 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1297017 GMT http://www.polluteless.com

In addition to that I try to live by what I suggest as being less damaging: We eat no meat to save energy, we hang-dry my clothes, I take 5 gallon showers, we keep the house pretty cold and instead dress warmly in the winter, and we use warm water bottles to heat the beds rather than heat the whole house. ]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1296418 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1296418 GMT
Deborah, S. Royalton VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1296224 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1296224 GMT
Click here for the VPR Staff's suggested resources]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1295411 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1295411 GMT 1) Sit with your bare feet in a container of cold water for a while.
2) If that isn't enough, immerse yourself in about 6 inches of cold water in the bathtub. Leave the water in the tub for cooling baths throughout the day.
3) "Natural" air conditioning: Weather permitting, leave windows open all night. (Expel residual warm air with a window fan in the morning.) Close windows and drapes. The interior will remain amazingly cool until late afternoon.

Susan, Rutland VT
(posted by VPR)]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1295235 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1295235 GMT Vermont RideShare: for those interested in carpooling, the VT Agency of Transportation sponsors this free carpool matching service for commuters.
Click here for the link


Craigslist.org also has a popular rideshare board for people driving to NY, Boston, etc. who are looking to share the ride and the cost.


EcoLogical Solutions: The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources suggests these "simple ways we can help Vermont's environment every day". They really are logical, useful suggestions for taking better care of our environs. Topics include "Children and Our Environment", "Lawn and Yard Care", "Automotive Maintenance", and "Detoxifying Your Home".
Click here for the link.

]]> http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1291841 http://action.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/posts/list/1181009.page#1291841 GMT